Perez Could 'Slack Off' If He Secures Contract Extension Says Marko

Monday, 08 April 2024 at 22:30

Sergio Perez's future in Red Bull has been discussed for a few months now, and Helmut Marko believes that a contract extension could even demotivate him.

Throughout his career in Formula One, the Mexican driver has proven his talent multiple times, but that statement couldn't be applied to his 2023 F1 season, which after a very good start, went downhill really fast.

Perez has struggled a lot, so much that his immediate sacking from the Austrian team was discussed by multiple pundits, but that didn't happen, and early on in 2024, he's doing quite well.

Perez has been part of three Red Bull's one-two finishes, most recently in Japan, but with his contract being valid only until the end of the 2024 season, who will be Max Verstappen's teammate in 2025 is a valid topic.

Helmut Marko, who is the team's advisor, spoke with Austrian publication OE24, and one of the drivers he was asked about was Sebastian Vettel, who has openly discussed his comeback to the sport.

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"What, Vettel at Red Bull? No, that is not an option."

Another name mentioned was Alex Albon, who has been doing great job in Williams, but Marko is aware that the Thai driver has a contract valid until the end of the 2025 season.

"Has a contract until the end of 2025."

With Perez as a seemingly reliable option, it seems that Red Bull will choose to sign the Mexican driver once again, however, Marko warns about risks of early contract signature.

According to the 80-year-old, if the Mexican driver would have a contract in his pocket too early, it could possible even demotivate him, since he's currently facing pressure of delivering results.

"Everything is an option. Our team is currently working very well. If he [Perez] has a secure contract for two years, there is a risk that he will slack off."